On December 3, more than 100 participants from The Arc of Essex County’s group homes and day programs—including, for the first time, all participants in the Bridges 2 day program—gathered at The Woodland in Maplewood for their annual Holiday Express celebration.

This high-energy event was filled with joy as attendees danced to live music from the Holiday Express band, mingled with Santa, the Grinch, Sesame Street characters, and other holiday figures, and ate a delicious lunch together.

Holiday Express is dedicated to spreading cheer through music, food, gifts, financial aid, and companionship in an effort to bring the gift of kindness during the holiday season and beyond. The group visits more than 100 shelters, soup kitchens, and special-needs programs annually from November to December 24, including The Arc of Essex County. Each participant from The Arc received a personalized Holiday Express bag containing essential items.

The Arc of Essex County extends heartfelt thanks to Holiday Express for consistently bringing joy and holiday magic to our Arc community every year.